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Online New Student Orientation

Access Canvas Orientation
Online Student Resources
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Welcome to Montclair Online!

The Montclair Online: New Student Orientation will provide you with a strong start to your online learning experience at Montclair State University. The orientation consists of two parts: a self-paced Online Orientation Canvas course to guide you through the essentials, followed by a virtual Academic Connection session where you’ll connect with your academic program.

Orientation for Spring 2026 Montclair Online students will run from January 5, 2026 to January 12, 2026.

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Part 1: Online Orientation Canvas Course (Asynchronous)

This self-paced course in Canvas is designed to support online program (ONP) students at Montclair. By engaging in interactive modules, you’ll become familiar with online learning tools, student resources ​(including NEST and the Online Student Center), and virtual success strategies. Canvas course opens January 5. 

  • Learn to navigate the Canvas learning platform
  • Explore the support services and resources available to you
  • Connect with other new students
Log Into Canvas to Access Orientation
Montclair Online student in live virtual session.

Part 2: Academic Connection (Live via Zoom)

Jumpstart your academic journey! Join the Academic Connection virtual session to connect with your program’s key members, explore your courses, and meet your academic advisor, program coordinator, and classmates. This is your chance to ask questions and lay the foundation for a successful semester.

Undergraduate SessionGraduate Session

Undergraduate
Academic Connection

  • Date: Monday, January 12, 2026
  • Time: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. EST
  • Who Should Attend – New bachelor’s degree students in online programs.

Graduate
Academic Connection

  • Date: Monday, January 12, 2026
  • Time: 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. EST
  • Who Should Attend – New graduate certificate, master’s and doctoral students in online programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

I am having trouble accessing the Online Orientation Canvas Course.
  • New Montclair Online students will see the Montclair Online: New Student Orientation course available on their Canvas account on January 5, 2026. Academic Connection sessions will follow on January 12, 2026 and require registration. Please check your email for more details or log into your NEST account to access Canvas directly. You can also go to NEST and search for the link to access Canvas. If you’re still unable to access the course, contact Montclair Online at unboundsuccess@montclair.edu or call 973-655-7110 for assistance.
Is the Montclair Online: New Student Orientation required?
  • The Montclair Online: New Student Orientation is required as it is designed to help students start off on the right track. The live Academic Connection session is also strongly encouraged, as it provides an opportunity to connect with your program advisors and peers just before the semester begins, ensuring that all students are ready to start the semester.
My academic program isn't listed for an Academic Connection Session, what should I do?
  • Not every online program will host a live virtual Academic Connection Session on January 12. Please reach out directly to your Graduate Program Coordinator if you have questions. To find the contact information for your Graduate Program Coordinator, please refer to the list of Graduate Program Coordinators.
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Contact Us

If you need more information, please contact us:

Email: unboundsuccess@montclair.edu  |  Phone: 973-655-7110